Namibian Wrestlers Dominate Southern Hemisphere Championships

In a remarkable display of athletic excellence, the Namibia Wrestling Federation (NWF) senior development team, Onghoshi, alongside junior wrestlers from Windhoek's emerging sports programs, secured an impressive 25 medals at the 2025 Johnnie Reitz Big 5 Open Championships in Pretoria.

Historic Medal Haul

The Namibian contingent, following in the footsteps of other successful Namibian combat sports athletes, captured 13 gold, nine silver, and five bronze medals. This achievement came at the largest wrestling tournament in the Southern Hemisphere, which attracted 1,008 participants this year.

Team Composition and Leadership

The national delegation comprised 48 athletes supported by 17 coaches, officials, and team leaders, demonstrating Namibia's commitment to nurturing young talent across various disciplines.

"Their success is a testament not only to the athletes' talent and resilience but also to the exceptional efforts of the NWF coaching team, whose strategic guidance ensured every wrestler was competition-ready," stated Anke Erasmus, NWF Secretary General.

Youth Development Success

A significant highlight was the strong showing from primary school wrestlers, particularly those representing Windhoek Wrestling Club and Roots Wrestling Club from Stampriet. These young athletes displayed exceptional maturity and technical skill, positioning Namibia as an emerging force in regional wrestling.

Future Prospects

The tournament's success marks a pivotal moment for Namibian wrestling, establishing the country's capability to compete and excel at international levels. This achievement aligns with the nation's broader goals of sports development and youth empowerment.